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Mictlan Mexico
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Mictlan Mexico
8.1
Mictlan Mexico is a modern Lower East Side spot where plated tacos, shareable antojitos, and agave cocktails lean a bit more polished than the neighborhood’s classic bodega-style joints. It reads as a casual sit-down choice for friends or date nights who want something between a taqueria and a full-blown scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Quesabirria
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 6.4
What makes it special: Contemporary Mexican plates and tacos in a compact, cocktail-friendly room.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting sit-down tacos and drinks.
When to visit: Weeknights or early weekends before the space feels cramped.
What to order: Birria Tacos, Quesabirria, Carne Asada Tacos.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu taco or mezcal specials; they rotate frequently.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally tough after 6pm on Broome/Delancey side streets, so plan extra time or use a nearby garage on Essex.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice top work fine, but many diners lean slightly polished for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; you can hold a conversation but expect background chatter and bar energy during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; light to moderate traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos and starters can be made vegetarian, though the menu leans meat-heavy overall.
Vegan options: Limited — typically 1–2 options depending on seasonal specials.
Gluten-free options: Good — many tacos can be served on corn tortillas, but always confirm cross-contamination concerns with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim lighting, compact room, and elevated cocktails create an easygoing but polished setting ideal for casual first dates where you don’t want something too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes — but expect a wait during peak weekend dinner hours. Early evenings or later seatings give you the best chance to walk in smoothly.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — older kids and teens will do fine, but the compact space and louder energy make it less ideal for toddlers or strollers.
Best For
Better for: More polished tacos and cocktails than a casual taqueria, with a stronger sit-down experience and a date-friendly atmosphere.
Skip if: You want ultra-authentic street-style tacos, a quiet room, or very wide vegetarian/vegan choices.
Mictlan Mexico
8.1
Mictlan Mexico is a modern Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar where tacos share space with ceviches, grilled mains, and composed plates. The room feels more polished than most neighborhood taquerias, making it a go-to when you want agave spirits and elevated tacos in one place.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos de Res, Suadero Street Tacos, Shrimp Tacos
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A newer, design-forward Mexican spot that treats tacos, cocktails, and larger plates with equal seriousness.
Who should go: Groups looking for a full dinner with tacos and cocktails.
When to visit: Later evenings when the bar fills and music picks up.
What to order: Birria Tacos, Suadero Tacos, shrimp tacos with a mezcal-based cocktail.
Insider tip: Book later reservations if you want more of a bar-forward, late-night vibe than a quiet meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm; rely on nearby paid garages along Delancey and Essex.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine but most guests opt for elevated night-out attire.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud, especially after 8pm when the bar fills and music rises; conversation is doable but energetic.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on group size; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner-focused; early evening weekday arrivals rarely wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tacos and starters can be made vegetarian, plus vegetable-forward specials.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 tacos can often be adapted, but not a fully vegan destination.
Gluten-free options: Strong options—many tacos are naturally gluten-free and staff can advise on safe modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, polished décor, and a strong cocktail program make it ideal for a stylish first date, especially if you want lively energy without feeling chaotic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—early evenings or late-night windows give you the best shot. For prime 7–9pm weekend slots, walk-ins should expect a bar wait first.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's more of a late-night, cocktail-driven environment. Older teens may fit in, but younger kids may find the space too loud and the menu too adult-focused.
Best For
Better for: Guests who want a more polished, design-driven Mexican dinner with both tacos and composed plates, plus a cocktail program that leans heavily into agave spirits.
Skip if: You want casual street-style tacos, quick service, or a quieter room—nearby taquerias or daytime spots will be more comfortable.